At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design coordination and manage complex commercial projects from start to finish.
- Company: Ambit, a specialist contractor known for high-quality commercial interiors across the UK.
- Benefits: Join a culture of integrity, teamwork, and continuous improvement with career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Opportunity to progress quickly into an autonomous Design Manager role.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on innovative projects and develop your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in design management or technical coordination, with strong problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Reporting to: Senior Design Manager
ABOUT AMBIT
Ambit is a specialist fit-out and refurbishment contractor delivering high-quality commercial interiors across the UK. We focus on the technical delivery of workplaces, transforming design concepts into fully realised spaces with precision, efficiency, and craftsmanship. Known for our problem-solving mindset, collaborative approach, and commitment to excellence, we partner with clients, designers, and consultants to deliver complex projects safely, on time, and to the highest standard.
THE ROLE
The Design Manager will play a key role in the delivery of a complex commercial Cut & Carve project, reporting into a Senior Design Manager on their first project within Ambit. From the outset, the successful candidate will be expected to take ownership of defined design packages, managing coordination, technical output, and programme alignment, while working within an established project structure. The role provides exposure to Ambit’s approach to delivery and standards, with the expectation that the individual will progress quickly into a fully autonomous Design Manager position on future projects.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Design Coordination & Package Ownership
- Take ownership of allocated design packages from pre-construction through to completion
- Review and interrogate design information to ensure buildability, compliance, and coordination
- Manage day-to-day coordination with architects, consultants, and subcontractors
- Lead elements of Design Team Meetings and drive actions to maintain programme alignment
- Cut & Carve Technical Delivery
- Manage design interfaces relating to structural alterations, strip-out works, and existing building constraints
- Coordinate integration of new services and fit-out packages
- Identify design risks and coordinate timely resolution, escalating key issues where appropriate
- Ensure technical solutions are practical, compliant, and aligned with project constraints
- Programme & Commercial Alignment
- Contribute to and manage elements of the Design Release Schedule (DRS)
- Ensure design deliverables are issued in line with construction sequencing and procurement requirements
- Support review of design solutions to ensure alignment with cost, programme, and buildability
- Provide input into pre-construction and tender activities where required
- Stakeholder Management
- Act as a coordination point between consultants, internal teams, and subcontractors
- Support client-facing activities, including design reviews and presentations
- Maintain clear communication on progress, risks, and deliverables
- Work collaboratively with Project Management and Commercial teams
- Quality & Compliance
- Ensure all design outputs meet Ambit standards and regulatory requirements
- Manage and track design changes across allocated packages
- Support the production of coordinated and technically robust design documentation
SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
- Technical & Industry Experience
- Experience in a Design Manager, Assistant Design Manager, or Technical Coordinator role
- Background in commercial fit-out, refurbishment, or Cut & Carve projects
- Strong understanding of building regulations and construction detailing
- Experience managing design packages within a live project environment
- Software & Tools
- Proficient in Revit
- Experience working within coordinated drawing and BIM environments
- Core Competencies
- Strong coordination and organisational skills
- Ability to manage workstreams with accountability and minimal oversight
- Good technical problem-solving capability
- Confident communicator across multiple stakeholders
APPROACH & EXPECTATIONS
- Takes ownership of deliverables and drives outcomes
- Comfortable operating within a structured project team on first assignment
- Escalates issues appropriately while maintaining momentum on packages
- Demonstrates the capability to step into a fully independent Design Manager role
WHY JOIN AMBIT
At Ambit, we take pride in building spaces that help organisations thrive. Joining our team means becoming part of a culture that values integrity, teamwork, and continuous improvement. You’ll gain exposure to complex, technically demanding projects, with a clear pathway to leading your own schemes and taking full ownership of design delivery.
Design Manager employer: Ambit
Ambit is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of integrity, teamwork, and continuous improvement, making it an ideal place for a Design Manager to thrive. With a focus on delivering complex commercial interiors, employees benefit from exposure to technically demanding projects and a clear pathway for career progression, allowing them to take full ownership of their design delivery. Located in the UK, Ambit offers a collaborative work environment where problem-solving and craftsmanship are at the forefront, ensuring that every team member can contribute meaningfully to the success of each project.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Design Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best design projects and problem-solving abilities. When you apply through our website, make sure to include this gem so we can see your talent in action.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Ambit and our approach to design delivery. We love candidates who understand our values and can discuss how they align with their own experiences. Be ready to share examples of your past work!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in our minds and demonstrates your commitment to joining the Ambit team.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Design Manager role. Highlight your experience in commercial fit-out and refurbishment projects, and show us how your skills align with our focus on precision and craftsmanship.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:We love a good problem-solver! In your application, share examples of how you've tackled design challenges in past projects. This will help us see your collaborative approach and commitment to excellence.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate well-organised applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen to join the Ambit team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ambit
✨Know Your Design Packages
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the design packages you'll be managing. Familiarise yourself with the specifics of Cut & Carve projects and be ready to discuss how you would take ownership of these packages, ensuring compliance and coordination.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Ambit values a problem-solving mindset, so prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully navigated design challenges. Be ready to explain how you identified risks and implemented practical solutions in a live project environment.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
As a Design Manager, you'll need to coordinate with various stakeholders. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think about how you would lead Design Team Meetings and drive actions to maintain programme alignment.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Knowledge
Brush up on your understanding of building regulations and construction detailing, especially in relation to commercial fit-out projects. Be prepared to discuss your proficiency in Revit and how you've used it in coordinated drawing and BIM environments.
